Description
This Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors that will elevate any gathering! The warm, gooey cream cheese paired with the vibrant, sweet-tart cranberry topping makes for a deliciously irresistible dip. It’s easy to make, and with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer ready in no time. Whether it’s a holiday celebration, a family dinner, or just a fun snack, this dip is sure to be a crowd favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries and brown sugar. Stir occasionally and cook until the cranberries soften and begin to burst (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly in the bottom of a baking dish (9×9 inches works great).
- Spoon the cranberry mixture over the cream cheese, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy finish.
- Serve warm with crackers, bread, or veggies for dipping!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry mixture.
- You can make this dip ahead of time! Just prepare everything, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it in the oven.
- If you’re short on time, you can also use frozen cranberries, just make sure they’re thawed before cooking.
- Vegan option: Swap the cream cheese for vegan cream cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American